Shots Heard Round the World

Madison, Wisconsin, October 29, 2007:

Wisconsinites can forget about getting free shots of liquor at their local grocery store.

Gov. Jim Doyle (Dem.) vetoed that provision of the new state budget Friday before signing the new two-year spending plan at a ceremony at the University of Wisconsin-Madison's student union.

A provision slipped into the budget at the last minute would have allowed up to 1.5 ounces of liquor to be handed out free.

"To me, it's absurd that you walk into a grocery store and start taking shots," Doyle said.

"That's where the Democrats and I disagree," said Ron in a press conference Monday morning in Trenton, New Jersey. "That's also where I differ from the Republicans. Listen, I like liquor...all kinds of liquor. I think you should be able to go anywhere in this great land of ours and score a shot. I'm talking malls, hospitals, churches...wherever."

Free beer is still OK, though. Doyle signed a law earlier this year allowing stores to pass out sample brews.

"At least Gov. Doyle hasn't completely lost his sanity," opined Ron. "You can still get a beer in a pinch when you need one [in Wisconsin]."

Doyle also vetoed a new three-tiered distribution system for wine sold in the state, saying the system would have stifled the state's small wineries, perhaps forcing them out of business.

The budget includes a $1 per pack increase in the cigarette tax, which takes effect Jan. 1.

The Legislature can override any of Doyle's vetoes if two-thirds of both the Senate and Assembly agree.

"I'm officially petitioning the state legislature in Wisconsin to veto the bill and get shots back on the table for all!" Ron declared. "And when that free shot is in the books, I'm gonna take it national. It's a cornerstone of my presidential campaign."

Posted by Bittle at October 29, 2007 04:24 PM